Cash internet survey

Many cellular carriers are taking advantage of the popularity of the Internet by using the web to market, and now even sell, their products and services. The addition of interactive customer services such as online activation and access to account and billing information via the web has become a popular trend among a number of cellular providers, an informal MPN survey found.

"Industry experts expect online sales to account for $1.5 trillion, or 2 percent of the global Gross Domestic Product by 2002," said Southwestern Bell's [SBC] Jan Collier, director of business development and market operations.

Although some carriers indicated they are still using their sites strictly as educational tools to keep customers informed, an overwhelming majority, including AT&T Wireless Services [T], Bell Mobility, GTE [GTE] and US West Cellular [UMG], said they were investigating or planning to offer online ordering and access to account information in the near future.

Of the providers polled, BellSouth [BLS] and US Cellular are the only ones currently offering online activation of service, but Ameritech [AIT] and Southwestern Bell also are testing the waters with virtual stores where visitors can purchase cellular accessories via the web. Cellular One's Pennsylvania site features an option that allows customers to access personal billing information.

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